Project Perfect

Using a software application to help manage your projects
shouldn't be more work than the project itself. Unfortunately,
in many cases, it is. And, at first glance, FastTrack Schedule
Version 7.0 from AEC Software
looks as if it could require more effort than you bargained for.
However, this project-management tool offers many features that can
make monitoring projects less of a headache.

Version 7.0, the latest upgrade to the software, is available
for $299 (street). It adds more customization options and new ways
to view your project's timeline. It also features a compatible
version for your Palm handheld computer, available for $99
(street). The Palm version offers a limited number of the features
available in the desktop version, but it does allow you to create
and edit schedules.

The desktop version is indeed far more robust. The interface is
busy-it can be overwhelming at first-but once you spend some time
navigating through the application and its many features, you learn
just what FastTrack can do. For instance, you can track progress on
a project by entering different tasks and assigning timelines. You
can also track the hours and the amount of money spent on each
project. New in Version 7.0: a calendar view that allows you to see
your project's timeline on a traditional calendar rather than
just on a Gantt chart. The tracking function also features a
critical path highlighter, which highlights the trail of tasks with
the least flexibility for change.

FastTrack 7.0 also adds resource tracking, which allows you to
track all the people, equipment and resources necessary for
projects. With the Resource Work Calendar, users can set individual
work calendars for each person or each piece of equipment involved
in a project. Each individual or piece of equipment can be assigned
to a specific task (issues such as vacation time or equipment
maintenance can be accounted for), and the information can be
displayed in a bar chart. Also among the new features in Version
7.0 are the QuickLook Balloons, the QuickRange Palette, a Web help
section and a Microsoft Project 2000 Exchange Wizard. A fully
functional version is available as a free download, but users will
be unable to save files. Registered users of Version 6.0 can
upgrade for $129.

Liane Gouthro, a former technology reporter at PCWorld.com, freelances from her
home in Brookline, Massachusetts.